There's just not anything better than a Steve Earle concert, except maybe a free Steve Earle concert. That'll be the ticket at Twist & Shout, when Earle arrives at 6 p.m. for a free performance promoting his new fifteen-song CD Townes, a musical tribute to the late singer/songwriter Townes Van Zandt, who was a key figure and mentor in Earle's own development as an artist. Though the album's guest list -- which includes Rage Against the Machinist Tom Morello, Tim O'Brien and Earle's own kid, Justin Townes Earle, with his obvious middle name -- won't be along for the ride, Earle by his lonesome, sitting on an incendiary set of music, is sure to be a treat.

Expect a tight squeeze and a mad rush for the precious wristband that will admit you to this event. To get yours, drop by Twist & Shout, 2508 E. Colfax Avenue, and preorder Townes in advance; you'll even get a free promo poster for your trouble. And don't worry: If it's not in your stars to be there, KBCO FM 97.3 will broadcast the in-store live, you lucky dog. Log on to Twist & Shout's site or call 303-722-1943 for details.